Michiganian Vs. Michigander: Unraveling Resident Demonyms In Michigan

Let's dive right in. First off, a demonym is a term used to describe the residents of a particular place. For example, if you're from Texas, you're a Texan. If you're from California, you're a Californian. Simple, right? So, shouldn't a person who hails from Michigan call themself a Michiganian rather than a Michigander? Well, the backstory here isn't just a matter of preference--it's rooted in history and a touch of political shade cast by Abraham Lincoln.

The Michigander Moniker: An Insult from Lincoln

According to the Detroit Free Press, the term "Michigander" is commonly credited to none other than Abraham Lincoln. But, it wasn't meant as a term of endearment. In 1848, Lincoln referred to political opponent Lewis Cass, then Michigan governor, who was running for president,  as "the great Michigander." In those days, calling someone a gander (a male goose) was the same as calling someone a nitwit.

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So, "Michigander" was Lincoln's way of calling Cass "a Silly Goose." But why did we stick with an insult demonym instead of the more traditional "ian" ending?

The Case for Michiganian

While Governor Gretchen Whitmer and former Governor Rick Snyder have used Michigander more, other past top officials like Jennifer Granholm, John Engler, and Jim Blanchard leaned more on Michiganian, according to Michigan Public. The latter has been used longer, dating back to the early 1800s. Michiganian sounds more formal and less like an animal that leaves dropping on your lawn.

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Plus, Michiganian sounds fancier, and I guess everyone likes to feel formal occasionally.

Which One Reigns Supreme: Michigander or Michiganian

Personally, I'm a fan of the 'gander'. Michigander sounds more like the state I grew up in, the state where you enter the house through the garage and take half an hour to say goodbye. A Michiganian sounds like someone who has an assistant call you if they're running behind. Ultimately, whether you identify as a Michigander or a Michiganian, we all scoop our snow one shovel at a time.

Curious About Other States' Demonyms?

If you think our demonym is confusing, you're not alone. It's one of the most Googled in the country. Keep scrolling for a gallery ranking the most-searched state resident nicknames.